4 Best Restaurants in Porto Santo, Madeira

This laid-back beach bar on the sandy shores of Praia da Fontinha is one of the best places on Porto Santo to soak up the island spirit. Parasols made of dried grass shade the tables, which sit directly on the sand; kick off your shoes, grab a cold beer, and watch the waves lap gently on the shore.

From the sandy shores of Praia da Fontinha, climb the stairs to reach this somewhat hidden spot. Sit outside on the rustic deck shaded by palm trees or dine in the surprisingly modern indoor space and watch the staff grill your food in the open kitchen—and come hungry: Pé na Água specializes in huge pots of seafood big enough to feed a whole family.

You can't visit Porto Santo without stopping by this fantastic seafood restaurant on the far end of Calheta Beach. The fresh fish of the day is always your best bet, or try the giant spicy prawns, amêijoas (cockles), or caldeirada (fish stew). There's also a snack bar open all day for drinks and lighter fare.

This storefront eatery is far from fancy—from the outside you might mistake it for a takeout joint—but the wooden benches just inside the door are always crowded because of its excellent oven-roasted chicken, served with salad and fries. It also serves home-baked bread.